Goal Hounds

Goal Hounds Code of Conduct


Goal Hounds Soccer believes that everyone involved in soccer has the right to participate in safe and inclusive environments, free from abuse, harassment, and discrimination. We are committed to ensuring that all players can enjoy the sport at whatever level or capacity they choose. The well-being of everyone in our soccer community is our top priority, and the protection of children in the sport is a responsibility shared by all.



The Soccer Hounds Player Code of Conduct Agreement sets clear expectations for behavior, helping to create a safer and more respectful environment for all participants in our club.


General Standards of Behaviour and Conduct


Those participating in sanctioned soccer activities have a duty to conduct themselves appropriately, respecting the Canada Soccer Rules & Regulations, British Columbia Universal Code of Conduct (BC UCC), Goal Hounds Soccer Rules & Regulations, as well as the rules of members and/or affiliated organizations. These laws and rules are published and readily available.

All participants in soccer have a responsibility to:

    - Comply at all times with Canada Soccer’s and Goal Hounds Soccer’s By-laws, policies, procedures, directives, and rules and regulations, as adopted and amended from time to time.
    - Work in a spirit of partnership to collaborate with all soccer stakeholders, aligning efforts to achieve shared objectives as communicated in the strategic plans of Goal Hounds Soccer and its governing bodies.
    - Resolve conflicts in a professional and civil manner.
    - Maintain and enhance the dignity and self-esteem of all individuals involved in soccer by: Demonstrating respect to individuals regardless of body type, physical characteristics, athletic ability, age, ancestry, color, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation.
    - Complying with the By-laws, Rules and Regulations, and Policies of soccer and its governing bodies.
    - Directing comments or criticism appropriately and avoiding public criticism of participants in soccer and sport.
    - Demonstrating the spirit of fair play, sport leadership, and ethical conduct.
    - Treating individuals fairly and reasonably.
    - Ensuring adherence to the Laws of the Game.
    - Demonstrate respect for the principle of fair play, which includes: Respect for both the letter and spirit of the rules; Respect for referees and their decisions; Respect for opponents, including modesty in victory and composure in defeat; Facilitation of access to sport; Maintenance of self-control at all times.
    - Refrain from using power or authority to coerce another person into inappropriate activities.
    - Promote the sport in the most constructive and positive manner possible.
    - Respect the property of others and not willfully cause damage.
    - Adhere to all federal, provincial, municipal, and host country laws.
    - Any adult aged 19 years or older must report any ongoing criminal investigation, conviction, or existing bail conditions, to the Goal Hounds Risk Management Officer.
    - Every organization is responsible to Goal Hounds Soccer for the actions of its members and/or their participants.
    - Participation of association officials in unaffiliated soccer activity without permission from Goal Hounds Soccer is not permitted.
    - Members of Goal Hounds Soccer and/or their member organizations may not participate in unaffiliated soccer activities, including but not limited to leagues, cup competitions, and/or tournaments.
    - Association officials, members of Goal Hounds Soccer, and their member organizations may not partner with or promote the interests of unaffiliated soccer.
    - Referees officiating in unaffiliated soccer activities without permission from Goal Hounds Soccer may be removed from the Registered Referee list of Goal Hounds Soccer.


Each player at Soccer Hounds has a responsibility to:


Players are expected to uphold the values of respect, commitment, and sportsmanship. By embracing these principles, players contribute to the overall success of the team and create a safe, supportive environment.

To foster this positive atmosphere, players should:

    - Play with enthusiasm, dedicating themselves to improving their own skills and supporting the development of their teammates.
    - Refrain from dangerous behavior during practices and games, ensuring that all activities are conducted in a safe and respectful manner.
    - Avoid horseplay or conduct that could risk injury to others or demean fellow players.
    - Treat coaches, team officials, and club officials with respect, recognizing the significant time and effort they volunteer to create playing opportunities.
    - Demonstrate reliability and commitment to the team by attending practices and games regularly, providing advance notice of unavoidable absences, and showing punctuality and a positive attitude.
    - Refrain from unsportsmanlike behavior, including the criticism of opponents or referees.

As the parent or guardian of a Soccer Hounds player, you have a responsibility to:


Spectators and parents play a crucial role in the success and sustainability of the game. Their support and conduct are vital for fostering a positive and healthy environment for all participants.

To ensure the game is appreciated to its fullest and remains a respectful space, spectators and parents are expected to uphold the following guidelines:


    - Encourage players to follow the rules and resolve conflicts peacefully without resorting to hostility or violence.
    - Refrain from ridiculing any player, focusing instead on providing positive, motivational comments that inspire continued effort.
    - Respect the decisions and judgments of officials, encouraging athletes to do the same.
    - Show appreciation to all competitors, as well as to the coaches, officials, and volunteers who dedicate their time to the sport.
    - Refrain from entering the training, gameplay or competition area and from interfering with any activities
    - Refrain from any negative or critical comments towards a Match Official.

Each Coach or Team Assistant at Soccer Hounds has a responsibility to:


Coaches play a key role in shaping not only the skills but also the character of their players. Their approach should be based on respect, safety, and a commitment to the development of each athlete.

Regardless of the aims and goals of a coach, the primary goal is to facilitate a learning environment that is fun, challenging, educational and develops a love for the game which enables the sport to retain as many players as possible.

For coaches to foster a positive and respectful environment, they are expected to uphold the following guidelines:

    - Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
    - Coaches must place the well being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
    - Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down within the Constitution and the Rules of BC Soccer.
    - Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
    - Coaches must NOT exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
    - Coaches must encourage and guide players to accept responsibility for their own behavior and performance.
    - Coaches must ensure at the activities they direct or advocate is appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of players.
    - Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the player (and, where appropriate, their parents) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach.
    - Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the player.
    - Coaches must always promote the appropriate Code of Conduct and positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) to players, parents and spectators alike.
    - Never condone violations of the Laws of the Game, behavior contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant rules and regulations or the use of prohibited substances or techniques.
    - Coaches must consistently display high standards of behavior and experience and be a role model for players, parents, and spectators.
    - Coaches will be reasonable in their demands on the young players’ time, energy and enthusiasm. Remember that they have additional interests and commitments.
    - Coaches will teach players to play fairly, to respect the rules, the officials and their opponents for without them, there would be no game of soccer.
    - Coaches will ensure that all players get equal instruction and will play half of each game.
    - Coaches will not ridicule, shout, use profane language or gestures at players, opponents or officials for making mistakes or for performing poorly.
    - Coaches will remember that players play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.
    - Coaches will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the players’ age and abilities.
    - Coaches will need to communicate with parents in the management of player injuries and will need to consider the player’s well-being for the future when making decisions on a player’s ability to play or practice.
    - Coaches need to remember that players need a coach they can respect.
    - Coaches will be generous with praise when it is deserved, and set a good example; as players often learn more from what they observe rather than what they are told.
    - Coaches need to make a personal commitment to be informed on sound coaching principles along with the principles of growth and development of players.


Each Goal Hounds Soccer Official has a responsibility to:

Those in positions of authority or trust within The Goal Hounds Soccer Organization are held to the highest standard of conduct, especially when deviating from proper behavior.

Directors, committee members, and staff must be aware of the various rules, regulations, guidelines, programs, and expectations governing both the soccer playing and administrative environments.

Upholding and defending these principles is essential, and failure to act appropriately may result in charges of unsporting or unethical behavior, damaging the reputation of the game.

Therefore, Goal Hounds Soccer Directors, Committee Members, Staff, and all other association officials must:

    - Comply with and be familiar with the laws and governance documents relevant to their roles.
    - Act with honesty and integrity, maintaining the confidence of Goal Hounds Soccer, its members, and stakeholders.
    - Ensure the organization's financial affairs are conducted responsibly, adhering to fiduciary and operational duties.
    - Conduct themselves professionally, lawfully, and in good faith, prioritizing the best interests of their organization and Goal Hounds Soccer.
    - Remain independent and impartial, avoiding self-interest, outside pressures, or undue influence.
    - Behave with decorum, acting fairly, equitably, and honestly in all dealings with others.
    - Stay informed about local, provincial, and national trends in the soccer and broader sport community.
    - Exercise the care, diligence, and skill required to fulfill their duties, as dictated by applicable laws.
    - Maintain appropriate confidentiality regarding business matters.
    - Ensure members have the opportunity to express opinions and give all perspectives due consideration.
    - Respect majority decisions and resign if unable to do so, unless the decision is unlawful.
    - Commit the necessary time for meetings, including preparation, active participation, and follow-up responsibilities.